The Dance Academy is an extra-curricular opportunity for experienced dance students to further extend their knowledge, technique and skill-base through participating in weekly sessions. It is necessary for all Dance Academy students to have a minimum of two years formal dance training, and to continue with their training outside of school during Years 9, 10 and 11 in order to maximise their capabilities.

Each year, Dance Academy students learn a variety of dances such as Contemporary, Jazz and Hip Hop, which are then entered into the annual Dance NZmade Interschool competition, held during Term 3; these are often used to help senior students gain extra NCEA Credits where possible. These dances are also performed at an end-of-Term Dance Showcase, and can be further selected to be performed at the end-of year Prize Giving ceremony.

There is also the opportunity for Dance Academy students to participate in Masterclasses given by dance professionals from companies such as the RNZB and Footnote New Zealand Dance, and attend performances by these companies at a discounted cost.

​​​​​​​Please Note: Entry into the Dance Academy is through an audition in November. If you would like to apply, please indicate this by ticking the Dance Academy box on your enrolment form. You will be contacted via email with an invite to audition.

ENTRANCE CRITERIA FOR DANCE ACADEMY

Students who are accepted into the Dance Academy are required to meet standards in the following areas:​​​​​​​

1. An approved course of study

2. Participation in all Dance Academy activities.

3. Dance performances - Showcases, Dance NZmade; Optional opportunities to perform at Open Night, School Production, Prize Giving ceremonies

Further requirements of the Dance Academy:

1. Students must take Dance as a subject in Years 9, 10 and 11 (optional in Years 12 and 13) 

2. Students must be willing to attend rehearsals before school - Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday - 8.00am - 9.00am (dependent on the rehearsal group required or activity) and after school Monday / Tuesday / Thursday 3.00pm - 4.30pm (dependent on the rehearsal group required). We do our best to avoid clashes with studio lessons or other rehearsals such as the school production.

3. Students are required to participate in Masterclasses / Dance Workshops being given by visiting professional dance educators from companies such as RNZB and Footnote New Zealand Dance.

4. Students must show a responsibility towards and respect for all aspects of the performing arts facilities.

5. Students should display caring, passion, dedication and self-motivation.

6. Students are also expected to keep up with their academic studies in all subject areas - completing all work to the best of their ability and meeting deadlines.